44Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, 45and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.
46So
continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from
house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of
heart, 47praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved. Acts 2:44-47
One of the greatest organizational temptations of the church is to stratify individuals based on spiritual maturity. It only makes sense. People with biblical knowledge and who live a life consistent with Scripture should lead.
However, when we look at the simplicity of heart demonstrated by this Acts 2 Church, we see a totally humble, interactive, unassuming church. That is an oversimplification of who this Church was. For the sake of space, I will leave it at that.
The application that I walk away with is that regardless of past or present, there should be an acceptance of one another among the believers as peers, friends, equals. I am bothered by lofty titles, highly stratified patronage systems, and entourages of important people. I am inspired by believers who regardless of social status or the lack thereof receive one another gladly, interact and engage wholly, and give freely.
The simplicity of community exists because Christ embraced the world. The simplicity of community demonstrates itself as a freely receiving, freely giving attitude among believers of all backgrounds and stages of life in Christ.
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Travis - I quite agree.
Have you ever read “Community & Growth” by Jean Vanier. A very stirring and provocative book. I think you might find some interesting passages there. It’s out of print so maybe Barnes & Noble second hand section might do the job!
Dave,
I have not read “Community and Growth.” But, it sounds like I should…going to Amazon now.